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Modeling Systems for Mechanized Automation

To plan new distribution centers or improve the efficiency of existing ones, manufacturers should consider using warehouse modeling software, says a new report from Gartner Group, Stamford, Conn. (http://gartner3.gartnerweb..com). Today's warehouse modeling systems cost $40,000 to $75,000 and can be implemented in 60 to 90 days, making them practical for larger manufacturers and for manufacturers whose warehouse efficiency is vital.

The software creates a mathematical model of all relevant activities of a distribution center and determines how much time those activities will consume, taking into account physical constraints. Focusing on capacity planning, inventory analysis, and the performance and cost impacts of selected logistics strategies, today's modeling systems software can tell distribution center managers everything they could learn by running the physical operations of the center. The software cannot create detailed data and may perform overly complex analyses of simple situations, however.

While the software can be useful to companies planning new distribution centers, it also aids companies considering automating their warehouse or seeking to improve the efficiency of manual distribution centers. Because it features "what if" planning, users can try out differenct sets of automation equipment and manual order and wave-picking strategies to find the best performing method. To allow the simulation to identify bottlenecks in either the automated or manual operations, companies must model automated equipment in conjunction with manual activities, GartnerGroup warns.

The report cites four current vendors featuring warehouse modeling software products. These include:

• Arena: Systems Modeling Corp. (http://www.sm.com)
• AutoMod: AutoSimulations (http://www.autosimulations.com)
• ProModel: ProModel Corp. (http://www.promodel.com)
• Witness: Lanner Group (http://www.lanner.com)

I have used Arena for over five years with a great deal of success. It is what we use to model all of our automated facilities for simulating activities, productivity and performance while identifying bottlenecks, etc. Recommend it to any interested parties in a simulation modeling tool that works with significant ease. - Paul

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